Moroccan Watermelon Exports Hit 7-Year Low Amid Drought

According to EastFruit, Morocco exported only 113,500 tons worth an estimated $96 million, between January and October 2024. With this export volume, the kingdom is recording a historic decline for the second consecutive year and is not expected to be among the top 10 global watermelon exporters in 2024.

France remains the main destination for Moroccan watermelons, with nearly half of the shipments. It is followed by Spain, with about a quarter, the United Kingdom (7%), Belgium (6%) and the Netherlands (5%). In total, Morocco exported its watermelons to 25 countries in 2024, with respective volumes of more than 1,000 tons.

This record decline in exports is explained by the severe drought affecting Morocco, causing a water shortage and leading to bans on watermelon cultivation in certain regions of the kingdom. According to EastFruit, the Tata province even stopped watermelon production, while several illegal plantations have recently been destroyed in Zagora.

The authorities have taken these measures to ration water and cope with the water crisis. The aim is to limit water-intensive crops in order to preserve natural resources in the regions most affected by the drought.